Safeguarding Thailand: UNFPA, NOCT, and HiSoParty Magazine Unite to End Gender-Based Violence in Sports

In an era where the global sporting community increasingly prioritizes "human rights" alongside "victory," Thailand has reached a significant milestone. UNFPA Thailand (The United Nations Population Fund), the National Olympic Committee of Thailand (NOCT), and HiSoParty Magazine have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to promote Safeguarding Thailand in Sport standards. This partnership aims to protect athletes and sports personnel from all forms of harassment, abuse, and violence within the sporting context.

MOU signing

The signing ceremony and press conference were recently held at Meeting Room 1, National Olympic Committee of Thailand. The event was presided over by Asst. Prof. Dr. Pimon Srivikorn, Director of the National Olympic Committee of Thailand, who expressed a firm commitment to driving safety, equality, and respect for human dignity within Thai sports. Key signatories included:

Ms. Siriluck Chiengwong, Head of Office, UNFPA Thailand.
Dr. Suwanna Silpa-archa, Vice President of the National Olympic Committee of Thailand and Chair of the Commission for Gender Equality and Safeguarding Thailand in Sport.
Ms. Preyamon Thanavisuth, editor-in-chief and founders of HiSoParty Magazine and website

MOU signing

A Rights-Based Approach to Safeguarding

The goal of this MOU is to develop and enhance systems for the prevention of and response to Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and harassment in sports through multi-dimensional collaboration, including policy advocacy, public media governance, and social engagement.

UNFPA Thailand will provide technical expertise, international best practices, and guidance to promote a survivor-centered approach to athlete protection.
The National Olympic Committee of Thailand, through its Commission for Gender Equality and Safeguarding Thailand in Sport, will play a leading role in coordinating with sports organizations to implement ethical and safety standards effectively.

Voices from the Partnership

MOU signing

Assistant Professor Dr. Pimon Srivikorn, President of the National Olympic Committee of Thailand under the Royal Patronage emphasized the global urgency of this initiative: "While 'Safeguarding Thailand in Sport' may be a relatively new concept in Thai society, it is a core policy of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). We are taking proactive steps because we recognize that protecting our athletes and personnel is the foundation of sustainable success."

MOU signing

Ms. Siriluck Chiengwong, Head of Office, UNFPA Thailand, highlighted that safeguarding is about more than just medals: "From UNFPA's perspective, creating a safe space in sports is essential for human well-being and quality of life. Physical and mental safety are fundamental human rights that must be respected regardless of gender or identity. Sexual harassment is a violation of human rights that undermines gender equality and strikes at the heart of human dignity."

She further added that athletes under high pressure need safe environments to reach their full potential. UNFPA encourages everyone in the sports community to:

Refrain from committing any form of violence or harassment.
Reject Silence: Do not ignore incidents; utilize your right to report and seek assistance.
Be a Voice: Influential athletes are invited to be advocates, confirming that GBV is unacceptable and serving as role models for the youth.

MOU signing

Dr. Suwanna Silpa-archa noted that her international experience underscored the need for holistic athlete care: "Athletes perform at their best when they feel safe. Our Commission will work tirelessly to prevent threats and abuse, truly caring for the quality of life of every athlete."

The Power of Communication

HiSoParty Magazine, a leading lifestyle media outlet, joins as a strategic partner to bring these issues to a wider audience. Ms. Preeyamon Thanavisuth shared that this partnership reflects a modern definition of "giving”, using the power of media to drive long-term social change. "HiSoParty believes lifestyle media can shift societal attitudes, making mutual respect and safety in sports the 'New Normal' in Thailand."

MOU signing

This MOU represents a bold stand: Violence in any form is unacceptable. The ultimate goal is to ensure that sports remain a safe haven for everyone, from youth and professional athletes to the national team, so that every smile from athletes and fans alike stems from genuine pride

MOU signing

See more photos: https://www.flickr.com/photos/163956826@N06/albums/72177720331809349

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